TAM Airlines, Brazil, has received the first Airbus A350 XWB ever delivered to the Americas, and becomes the fourth airline in the world to operate this next-generation, energy-efficient aircraft.

“We are pioneers in bringing this aircraft to the region, and its arrival in the Americas reinforces our constant commitment to maintaining one of the youngest and most innovative fleets in the world,” said Claudia Sender, CEO of TAM S.A. “We want to offer our passengers even greater comfort, with aircraft equipped with the most modern aviation technology, that are more efficient and produce lower environmental impact.”

In March, the A350 XWB will begin international service from São Paulo/Guarulhos to Miami International Airport, and in April, the aircraft will begin flying from São Paulo/Guarulhos to Madrid, Barajas. The aircraft will also serve routes from São Paulo/Guarulhos to Orlando International Airport, starting in the second half of 2016.

The airline will take delivery of six additional A350 XWBs in 2016, and has ordered 27 A350XWB aircraft in all; an investment valued at $7 billion (list price), scheduled for delivery through 2021.

TAM’s new A350 is configured in a two-class cabin with 348 seats, 318 in Economy Class and 30 full flat seats in Premium Business class.

The airline’s fourth A350 XWB aircraft, scheduled for delivery in June of next year, will introduce a third service class: Economy Plus, offering more legroom between seats. That aircraft will offer 30 seats in Premium Business class, 63 in Economy Plus and 246 in Economy Class.

“We always pay close attention to the scenario and adjust our fleet renewal plan to obtain optimum aircraft allocation in each market. The A350 XWB joins our fleet with the mission of operating as one of the main aircraft on long-haul flights to the United States and Europe. The combination of its wider fuselage, advanced composite material and unique cabin provide an even more pleasant travel experience and more efficient operations,” said José Zaidan Maluf, vice-president of Fleet and Engines at LATAM Airlines Group.

The A350 XWB plays a key role in the airline’s long-haul strategy moving forward, allowing it to carry larger numbers of passengers efficiently and comfortably.

In September of this year, LATAM Airlines Group changed its order for six of its A350-900s to longer A350-1000s, which have can fit more passengers onboard.